General

Statement of values:

We are dedicated to the highest standards of ethics and public service, and will strive for the maximum of effectiveness and economy in Library operations. Information services will be conducted with all possible consideration of confidentiality for the researcher and the contents of research. The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees, Director, staff, and volunteers will strive for equity and fairness in serving individuals and organizations throughout the community. We are dedicated to the development of full and equal access to information for all people.

These are the values which guide our services:
• Patron needs come first – we place the highest priority on service to our patrons and treat every request as being of equal value. We acknowledge that our patrons’ information needs are considered first as we enhance traditional services, and implement new and innovative services. We will proactively develop new services to meet changing information needs in our community.
• Respect for people – we treat all our patrons, and each other, as valued individuals.
• Access to information. We ensure access to information for people of all ages, abilities, and means.
• Freedom of information. We protect the freedom to read and view all Library information.
• Privacy and confidentiality. We safeguard the right to request and obtain information in confidence.
• Basic services without charge. We provide basic Library services free of charge.
• Promotion of services. We inform our community about Library services. We draw our community into dynamic environments that encourage a love of reading and lifelong learning.
• Quality. We strive to deliver the highest quality services possible. We strive to provide friendly, approachable, knowledgeable, and expert staff.
• Stewardship of community resources. We recognize that we have been entrusted with managing Library resources contributed by the community. We hold ourselves accountable for the efficient and effective use of all resources – people, time, assets, and funds.
• Integrity. We follow the ethical standards and policies which have been adopted by the Newton Public Library Board of Trustees.

Newton Public Library mission statement:

The mission of the Newton Public Library is to provide modern library resources and services necessary to the evolving educational, recreational, and informational needs of the community.

Library materials and services should be selected to satisfy the present as well as anticipated future needs of individuals and groups in the community. The library attempts to give the best service possible to its regular users. It also has an obligation to collect materials and search for methods of service that will satisfy the needs of those in the community who have not traditionally been library users. Every citizen, including those with disabilities, should have ready and free access to the world of ideas, information and creative experience.

The Newton Public Library selects, makes available, and promotes the use of library materials, whatever the format, which:

Meet the informational needs of the community.

Meet the recreational needs of the community.

Supplement formal and informal study.

Reflect a variety of opinions (minority and majority) on a subject.

Support economic, cultural, recreational, and civic activities in the community.

Stimulate self-understanding and growth.

Enhance job-related knowledge and skills.

Increase knowledge of and participation in the affairs of the community, the state, the country, and the world.

Revision of policies:

Upon recommendation of the Library Director or a majority of the Library board, policies may be reconsidered or revised. The Library Board is granted sole authority in Kansas Statute for adopting Library policies.

Patron Service Policies

Access to Library services:

The Newton Public Library affirms a person’s right to use a Library should not be denied because of origin, age, background, or views.
Any restrictions regarding the type of materials a minor may borrow from the Library must be made by a parent or guardian, with the following exception: In the interest of protecting the families from replacement or damage costs and the collection from damage or loss, toys may be checked out only by an adult.

Confidentiality:

In accordance with K.S.A. Open Records Act (KOMA), 45-215 et seq., the Newton Public Library Board of Trustees in recognizing the Library’s position of special trust with members of the public, ascribes to the confidentiality of Library and patron records. Staff, volunteers, and the Library Board of Trustees will not make available any of the information listed below to any person, agency of state, federal, or local government except and pursuant to federal, state, or local law relating to civil criminal, or administrative discovery procedures or legislative investigative power:
• A patron’s name or whether an individual is a registered borrower or has been a patron
• A patron’s address
• A patron’s phone number
• A patron’s email address
• The Library’s circulation records and their contents
• The Library’s borrowers’ records and their contents
• The number or character of questions asked by patrons
• The frequency or content of a patron’s lawful visits to the Library or information supplied to the Library or gathered by it shall not be given, made available or disclosed to any individual, corporation, institution or government agency without valid process, order or subpoena.

The Library will not retain a patron’s charge records beyond their use for circulation or control purposes.
In exchange for access to Library services, Library patrons irrevocably consent and agree that the Library may disclose and/or submit the circulation records of patrons with past due materials and unpaid fines, charges and fees to a collection agency, legal counsel and/or the court system for the purposes of debt collection and materials recovery.
Parents or legal guardians of children under 18 years of age may, upon presentation of proper identification, obtain the current status of their child’s circulation record or withdraw their authorization for the child’s Library card.

Code of Conduct:

To the ultimate goal of providing a pleasant and suitable environment at the Newton Public Library, the following Code of Conduct is presented to protect the personal rights of patrons and employees and insure the preservation of public property. (See Appendices: Code of Conduct Policy – Public Form, Code of Conduct Procedures, The City of Newton, KS, Report of Incident Procedures, Code of Conduct Violation Report Form, The City of Newton, KS, Report of Incident Form)

All persons are welcome in the Library. Parents or guardians are responsible for the conduct and safety of persons under their care.

Library materials must be properly checked out at the check out desks. Certain materials, such as reference books, and current periodicals may not be removed from the Library.

Library staff reserves the right to inspect all bags, briefcases, backpacks, containers, books and any similar items.

Library telephones are for Library business only.

The following will not be tolerated in the Library at any time:

Behavior which may result in disturbing other Library users, including, but not limited to: loud talking, obscene, profane or abusive language, running, fighting, shoving, throwing things, physical or verbal harassment or threats

Any person, clothing or belonging that are soiled in such a manner that may in turn cause by contact the soiling or staining of Library furnishings or other Library property; and any person, clothing or belonging that emits strong nauseating odor

Leaving a child, ages seven or under, unattended in the Library without the supervision of an adult except for organized Library activities

Use of audio equipment or musical instruments, except Library equipment, so that others can hear it

Alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, firearms or other weapons (with the exception of persons lawfully carrying a concealed weapon under a State license, or others such as law enforcement officers who are specifically exempted from any such restrictions)

Smoking, tobacco products or e-cigarettes

Animals, except for those needed to assist a patron with a disability or for use in a Library sponsored program that has been authorized by the Library Director

Entering non-public areas such as staff work rooms, offices and storage areas

Any illegal act or conduct in the violation of federal, state, or local law, ordinance or regulation

Shoes and shirts must be worn in the Library.

Patrons must promptly leave the Library at its regular closing time.

The elevator is to be used as the means to the lower level of the Library. Safe and responsible behavior is expected in its operation.

The Newton Public Library assumes no responsibility for children left unattended on the Library premises.

Any person whose behavior is inappropriate to the use of the Library by other patrons or violating the Code of Conduct may be asked to leave the Library premises. A patron who refuses to leave under these circumstances is trespassing. In the case of trespass, the Library staff supervisor handling the trespass will seek assistance from the police if needed.

Request for information:

All requests for a copy of any budget, report, minutes or other discrete and readily identified public record shall be open for inspection or copying by any person unless otherwise provided.
Charges for the costs of staff time and copying shall be at the hourly rate of pay received by the staff person actually making the record accessible. No charge shall be made for staff time of less than six minutes, but thereafter, staff time will be computed at six minute intervals. The costs of copying shall be $.10 per copy page.
Requests for Library and patron records shall be denied in accordance with the K.S.A. Open Records Act. (see Confidentiality). All requests must be submitted in writing and signed by the requestor.

Hours:

The facility will be open for public service as follows:
Monday through Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The Library website and on-line resources will be available for public access 24 hours each day except for maintenance services.

Holidays:

Holidays the Library shall not be open to the public: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day.
Closing the Library for other observed holidays will be at the discretion of the Library Board.

Training days:

It is at the discretion of the Library Board to close the Library for staff, board and volunteer In-Service Training Days..

Inclement weather:

The Library may be closed at the discretion of the Library Director or Library Board President for inclement weather. It is the general policy to close the Library when USD 373 Newton closes for inclement weather..

Issuance and use of Library card:

A Library card will be issued without charge to residents of Kansas who present valid proof of identification which includes a photo ID (see Appendices: Registration Application). Acceptable forms of identification are:

Kansas Driver’s License with current address or Kansas ID

School ID with proof of address

Military ID with proof of address

Utility bill, lease agreement, or mail that is not hand-addressed is acceptable, if accompanied by a photo ID

Persons under the Kansas age of majority which is eighteen years of age must obtain a parent’s or legal guardian’s signature with parent’s/guardian’s identification as per above qualifications. In cases where an individual has been conferred the rights of majority by District Court, or is 16 years or over and is or has been legally married, the person is treated by law as having achieved “age of majority”.

Courtesy cards are issued to college students who are not residents of Kansas but attending a Kansas college who present a school ID with proof of address.

The Library will issue cards, with a legal guardian’s or foster parent’s signature on the application, to wards in a legal guardian’s or to foster children in a foster parent’s care. The guardian or foster parent will remain legally responsible for lost, damaged, or overdue items checked out on that card until such time as the guardian or foster parent notifies Library staff that the child is no longer in their care and the Library card should be cancelled.

A Library card may be issued to a business, governmental unit, or other organization when requested and when a responsible individual is identified. The business or organization is responsible for materials borrowed on the card.

A teacher Library card may be issued to a teacher when requested who present valid proof of identification. A teacher Library card will extend the three week loan period for an item to an eight week loan period. Library items checked out on the special teacher card must be for in classroom use. The teacher is responsible for materials borrowed on the card.

Library materials may be checked out by anyone with a Newton Public Library card in good standing.

To check out materials, the patron must present the Newton Public Library card.

Patrons are in “good standing” when the amount of fees or lost charges is less than $5.00 and there are no items more than 30 days overdue or fees more than $5.00 but an active payment plan in place.

Lost or Damaged Cards:

The patron is responsible for promptly notifying the Library of a lost or stolen Library card. Patrons are responsible for all materials checked out to a lost or stolen card that is not reported as such.

Upon loss or damage beyond usability of a Library card or barcode the replacement cost of a new card or barcode is $2.00. Staff may issue a new borrower’s card or barcode without replacement charge five years after issuance of previous card.

Each day for a loan period ends when the Library facility closes for public service.

Renewal Methods: The patron may renew a library material as listed below in Renewal Loan Periods. A patron must follow standard check out procedures in order for an item to be renewed by one of the following methods:

Bring the library material into the Library and follow standard check out procedures.

Renew the library material through the Library automation system by entering the requested patron barcode number and PIN.

Renew the library material by calling the Library and providing the staff with the patron barcode number and PIN.

Renewal Loan Periods:

7 days (1 week): New books may be renewed one time if there are no holds for the books.

7 days (1 week): Holiday books are non-renewable.

21 days (3 weeks): Items may be renewed one time if there are no holds for the items.

Interlibrary Loan: Interlibrary Loan materials may be offered to Library patrons in conjunction with the guidelines established by the Kansas Interlibrary Loan Council. Check out requests of Interlibrary Loans will be limited to four per borrower at any one time.

All other loans including overdue materials are non-renewable.

Reservation of Materials: Any circulating material owned by or on order by the Newton Public Library may be placed on hold without charge.

Fines and fees:

Items held over the final day of the loan period are subject to the following fine schedule except as noted. (See Bylaws Appendices for Ordinance No. 3506)

10 cents per day for all items, except equipment

$1 per day for equipment

A $5 maintenance fee is charged for all equipment for the loan period.

Replacement cost, $10.00 processing fee and accumulated fines per item will be charged for material damaged or destroyed beyond use. Material that is damaged or still useable will be charged a minimum of $1.00 up to the replacement cost of the material.

The Newton Public Library is not responsible for any damage which may occur to a patron’s personal equipment during use of videos, audiocassettes, compact discs or computer software borrowed from the Library. Any damage to the Library’s material is the responsibility of the borrower.

Denial or restriction of Library use:

Any patron who has fines or fees accumulating to $5.00 or more must clear those charges before the patron’s Library card can be reactivated.

Lost Declaration. Patrons are responsible for library materials borrowed on their Library card which have been declared lost or damaged beyond repair by the Library or the patron. An item is declared lost by the Library when the item is at least 30 days overdue. A patron may declare an item lost or damaged beyond repair at anytime.

The patron is responsible for the replacement cost of the item and a $10.00 processing fee per item. When payment is not made within 30 days of the lost declaration the patron’s charges may be referred to a collection agency.

The patron, whose transactions have not been referred to a collection agency, may return the lost item with the payment receipt to the Library if the item is found within 30 days of payment. Upon Library Board of Trustees approval, the patron will receive 80% of the replacement cost of the item. The processing fee is not refunded. No refund will be given for transactions referred to a collection agency.

The patron owns the item if it is located more than 30 days after payment. No refund is given.

Services to teachers:

The Library will cooperate with area public, private and home schools to promote good reading habits with students.

Classes are welcome to visit the Library for stories, research, and tours. As a courtesy to staff and other patrons, it is requested that teachers call the Library before bringing in a class or group of students. This will allow staff to plan for visits, and to advise teachers of the best times to visit, based on pre-existing classroom activities, Storytimes and staffing availability.

Services to persons with qualified disabilities:

No individual with a qualified disability shall, by reason of such disability, be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of the services, programs or activities of the Newton Public Library, except when such accommodation would result in a fundamental alteration in the nature of the program or in undue financial and administrative burdens.

Reference and information services:

The Library reference staff endeavors to provide accurate information and materials in response to requests from Library users in an efficient, courteous, and timely manner. Questions are generally answered in the order received, with priority given to questions asked by patrons in the library.
Telephone or electronic reference service is usually limited to supplying readily available information that does not require extensive research and that can be accurately imparted over the telephone or electronic communication system. Extensive research that requires selection of appropriate materials, interpretation of data and sources, or analysis of information is best performed by the patron.
Telephone reference questions that can be answered quickly (two or three minutes) without affecting service to patrons in the library should be handled while the patron waits. Questions that require more time to answer, or that are received while other patrons are waiting in the library, will be handled as callbacks. Privacy and concern for accuracy of information will be considered when leaving messages on answering machines or with another household member.
Additional care and caution must be exercised when providing legal, medical, or consumer information. To avoid misunderstandings, it is preferred that patrons visit the library to review this type of information, rather than receiving the information over the telephone. Staff will not offer advice or opinions, condense or abstract information, or suggest a course of action or diagnosis. Staff will provide the source and copyright date for legal and medical information.
Cross directory information will not be provided via the telephone or computer.

Interlibrary Loan requests:

The Library participates in the Kansas Interlibrary Loan (ILL) Circuit. At the request of a patron, the Library will attempt to locate materials which are not owned by the Library and borrow the materials from other participating Interlibrary Loan libraries. * The patron is limited to four Interlibrary Loan requests on the system at one time. * The loan period is determined by the lending Library.

Interlibrary Loan fees:

If the lending Library charges a lending fee, the patron, after being consulted, will be responsible for the charges.

Electronic services:

Computer use is an integral part of Newton Public Library activities and information resources. The following policy governs the use of public workstations at Newton Public Library The Newton Public Library has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content. As with other library materials, restrictions of a minor’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian The Library does not monitor an individual’s use of any sites except when material displayed on the screen may be deemed criminally prohibited by applicable state and federal laws. All workstations are in view of other library users and staff and users are not permitted to display images containing gratuitous violence or obscenity as identified in K.S.A 21-3516 and 21-4301 et seq, and federal laws on copyright (U.S. Code, Title 17). The Library complies with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act (NCIPA) (codified in pertinent part at 20 U.S.C. § 9134) regarding requirements to use technology protection measures. Technology protection measures such as filters are not completely reliable. The Library cannot be held responsible for prohibited information that might be displayed. The Library will disable the filter for adults patrons 17 and over upon request or in the case of minors for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.
Child Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act (NCIPA) laws require an age-related limitation of information access for, in the Kansas law, “…a child under the age of 18 years” and in CIPA and NCIPA, “…an individual who has not attained the age of 17.” This limitation is applied to information that is obscene as defined in K.S.A. 21-4301; 21-4301a, and 21-4301c. In compliance with state law, the library will apply this limitation to users under the age of 18. To provide the definition required by CIPA and NCIPA, the phrase “matter…inappropriate for minors….” used in the federal law is regarded as synonymous with the definition of obscenity in K.S.A. 21-4301; 21-4301a, and 21-4301c. Applicable state and federal laws for this policy are available upon request.

Illegal and prohibited acts:

Inappropriate use of Internet access will result in cancellation of the individual’s use of this service. Examples of inappropriate use include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Displaying or disseminating images containing gratuitous violence or obscenity; • Disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal information that could threaten the safety or security of a minor, any other person, or the Library; • Attempting unauthorized access to restricted or confidential systems; • Use of computer which impedes activities of others; • Destruction or damage to equipment, software, or data belonging to the Library; • Unauthorized monitoring (or disruption of) electronic communications; • Unauthorized use or destruction of data of other users; • Unauthorized copying of copyright-protected material; • Violation of software license agreements and copyright laws; • Violation of another user’s privacy; • Any illegal activity, unethical misrepresentation or any form of harassment; • Use of library workstations for other than their intended purposes.
Illegal acts involving Library resources may be subject to prosecution by local, state, or federal law enforcement authorities.
When Internet searching results in disruption of library service, or if patron behavior when using Internet resources becomes inappropriate for a library setting, the library reserves the right to end the session.

Internet access for minors:

As with all Library materials, parents, legal guardians and caregivers, not Newton Public Library, are responsible for their minor’s use of the Internet. The organization of the Internet makes it impossible for Library staff to control content selected by minors or adults. Parents are expected to monitor and supervise their minor’s use of the Internet through the Library. Parents and minors are encouraged to read CHILD SAFETY ON THE INFORMATION HIGHWAY including the section MY RULES FOR ON-LINE SAFETY, reprinted and distributed with permission of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which is available on-line and in print form through the Library. Parents and legal guardians may restrict their minor from access to the Internet resource available through the Library (see Appendices: Internet Access For Minors Restriction Form, Internet Access Procedure, Internet Disclaimer on Internet Workstation, Statement on Internet Sign Up Sheet).

Internet contents:

Library staff cannot control the availability of information links which often change rapidly and unpredictably. Not all sources on the Internet provide accurate, complete or current information. Users need to be good information consumers, questioning the validity of the information. The Library’s book, periodical, CD-ROM databases, etc., provide resources that have been selected in accordance with the Materials Selection Policy and consequently are often more authoritative and credible than some Internet content.

Other Internet restrictions:

The Library does allow Library patrons and visitors access to email through free web based email services for a maximum of 15 minutes per day on designated email stations. Library patrons and visitors may access Library email stations by presenting a Newton Public Library card or acceptable photo identification. Visitors under the age of eighteen who are not registered borrowers may register to use email stations only with a parent or legal guardian who has presented acceptable photo identification.
The Library does not provide access to newsgroups/chat rooms. Users may not download material onto the computer’s hard drive.
The Library reserves the right to terminate an Internet or computer session at any time.

User responsibilities:

All users of the Internet are expected to use this Library resource in a responsible and courteous manner, consistent with the purposes for which it is provided, and to follow all Internet-related rules, regulations and procedures established for its use including, but not limited to, those of the Library. Responsible, courteous use of the Internet includes: * Recognizing that the Internet, like all of the Library’s information sources, must be shared and used in a manner which respects the rights of others and refrains from activity that prevents others from using it. * Using the Library’s Internet resources for educational, informational and recreational purposes only, not for unauthorized, illegal or unethical purposes. * Respecting intellectual property rights by making only authorized copies of copyrighted, licensed or otherwise-controlled software or data residing on the Internet. * Respecting the privacy of others by not misrepresenting oneself as another user; by not attempting to modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data belonging to others; by not seeking unauthorized access to any computer system, or damaging or altering software components of any network or database. * Respecting the privacy of others using public access workstations at the Library by not interfering with their use. * Not sending, receiving, or displaying text or graphics which may reasonably be construed as obscene. * Making only authorized copies of copyrighted or licensed software or data. * Refraining from the deliberate propagation of computer worms or viruses.

Steps for accessing electronic services:

* User must sign up to use computers at the appropriate desk and must follow stated policy and procedure for each computer. * Use of Internet and email computer stations is open to all registered Library patrons and visitors in good standing (see: Illegal and Prohibited Acts, Denial Or Restriction Of Library Use). Users must sign up at the Check Out Desk presenting a Newton Public Library card or acceptable photo identification which will be held for the duration of the Internet or email session. Parents and legal guardians may restrict minors from access to Internet resources available through the Library (See Appendices: Internet Access Restriction Form). Visitors under the age of eighteen who are not registered borrowers may register to use email stations only with a parent or legal guardian who has presented a Newton Public Library card or acceptable photo identification. * Register for public use reference computers at each computer station. * Register for public use CD computers at Children’s Services Check Out Desk. * User may reserve computer time 24 hours prior to use. * User may reserve up to a one hour block of time in a 24 hour period. * User may use the computer in 15 minute increments until time the computer was previously reserved if the computer is available without making a reservation. * Parents and guardians of minor children are responsible for their children’s use of Library computers. Parents and guardians are expected to monitor and supervise their children’s access to the computer resources in the Library. * Users may not download materials onto the computer’s hard drive. Users may download material onto a diskette, when appropriate. The diskette must be purchased from the Library. There will be a $1 charge for each diskette used. Due to chances of a virus, users may not bring in their own diskettes. * Users may not use their personal software on Library computers. * Library scheduled use of the equipment takes precedence over individual use at all times.

Steps for handling inappropriate use of the Internet:

* Whenever a staff member receives a complaint or witnesses a user accessing Internet material that may be inappropriate, the staff person should take the first step to correct the situation. The staff member should inform the user that it appears they may be viewing material that is considered inappropriate and ask them to review the Library acceptable use policy. The staff member will inform the user that violating the acceptable use policy will result in the loss of library privileges. * The staff member will note on the patron’s card that the customer was observed or reported to be viewing inappropriate material, that the acceptable use policy was reviewed and that the patron was informed that violation of this policy will result in the loss of library privileges. * If it is established that the patron is viewing inappropriate material after the policy has been reviewed with them, the supervisor will be called. Once the supervisor has established that the customer has violated the policy after receiving the proper warning, disciplinary action will be taken. * Violation of the Electronic Services Acceptable Use Policy will be considered unacceptable behavior and disciplinary action will be taken. A first incident will result in being banned from the library for a single day, then for a week, then for a month. Permanent banning for unacceptable behavior must be authorized by the Library Director and should be used only when repeated attempts to encourage proper behavior have failed.

Public use of library supplies:

The Library will not provide supplies to patrons free of charge other than scrap paper and use of pencils while in the Library.

Use of copier or printer:

The Library will charge $.10 for each copy on paper up to 8”X14”, $.20 for each copy on 11”X20” paper and $1.00 for each copy on a transparency printed from the copier and computer printers. Charges apply for all public use and staff personal use copies.

Use of microfilm machine:

The Library will charge $.20 for each copy of paper printed from the microfilm machine.

Public use of fax machine:

The Library will charge a rate of $1.00 per sheet sent and/or received for public use fax transactions within the continental United States, including cost of sending a cover sheet. Transactions outside the continental United States will not be accepted.

Public programming:

Library programming promotes reading readiness and literacy, helps young people discover the pleasures of reading and learning, enhances the ability of all users to fully benefit from Library services, and develops awareness of the Library’s capabilities.
In addition to the benefits of specific programs, Library programming provides an opportunity for publicity and thus increases community visibility, and encourages association with other community organizations.
Library initiated programs are provided as a community resource, under the same policies of free and open access to information and ideas for all users that govern access to library materials.
Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute an endorsement of the content of the program or the views expressed by the participants. Library initiated programs are offered free of charge and are open to all, without regard to origin, ages, background, or views. Some programming that is developed by the Library is most appropriate for individuals of certain ages; this may be noted in promotional materials.
Programming shall be provided so that individuals with disabilities as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act can participate in and/or derive benefit from them, provided that accommodation does not result in a fundamental alteration of the service or constitute an undue burden on the Library. Requests for interpretative services or other accommodations should be made at least one week in advance of the scheduled event.
Special programs of specific interest may be offered as funds and staff support are available.

Adult services:

Outreach services to Newton & North Newton senior citizens who reside in care institutions or are homebound, may be provided as staff and funding allocations are available through the ENLITE program.

Youth services:

The Library provides services and materials to accommodate varying levels of intellectual development among youth. These services and materials include reference, information and referral, reader’s advisory, and programming in formats appropriate for each developmental level.

Acceptable use of meeting rooms:

Newton Public Library welcomes the use of the Bessemer Meeting Room and the Board Room for use by the citizens of Newton and Harvey County during the Library’s regular hours of operation.
Meeting Room Policies Meeting Room Application

Display and distribution of community information:

Space for the display and distribution of community information is available on an equitable basis. Material which, in the judgment of the Library Director and at least two Head Supervisors, is obscene or gruesome will not be displayed. Those whose information is refused for display may appeal to the Library Board at the next regular meeting. The Library Director is authorized: * To establish size restrictions on items posted or distributed * To restrict, on an equitable basis, the quantities of brochures to be distributed * To impose restrictions on the length of time during which a poster will be posted or a brochure distributed.
To ensure unbiased and equitable access by the public to local campaign issues, the Library prohibits distribution of campaign literature on Library property.
Personal distribution of literature and/or solicitation of Library employees or other individuals on Library premises is prohibited.
Individuals or groups may not approach patrons or staff in the Library to request the signing of petitions of any kind. Staff is instructed to inform any individual or group attempting to solicit signatures of this policy.

Exhibits and displays:

Exhibit and display areas in the Library are maintained for the exhibit of educational, cultural, intellectual and aesthetic materials by the Library and the community. Displays and exhibits will be approved and scheduled as space permits by the Director or designated supervisor. Requests will be considered based on the availability of exhibit space. The Library reserves the right to limit the size, number of items, the schedule of any displays, and the frequency with which the person or organization may have a display or exhibit. Use of exhibit space for Library purposes takes precedence over other displays.
The sponsoring group or individual is responsible for creating the display, setting it up according to schedule, and removing it before the next scheduled display or exhibit. Scheduling for all displays and exhibits must be made at least one month in advance with the Director or designated supervisor. A name, address, and phone number of a contact person responsible for the exhibit must be provided for staff use only.
The Library reserves the right to exclude exhibit material in whole or in part that is unsuitable to the Library’s mission, or that falls outside of the expressed purpose of exhibits and displays. Materials which, in the judgment of the Library Director and at least two Supervisors, are obscene or gruesome will not be exhibited. Exhibitors whose materials are refused for exhibit may appeal to the Library Board at the next regular meeting.
The Library reserves the right to deny the use of exhibit space to individuals or groups whose purpose is illegal, or whose presence would interfere with the proper functioning of the Library.
The fact that an organization or person is permitted the use of a Library exhibit area does not in any way constitute an endorsement by the Library of their policies or beliefs and no claim to that effect may be used in advertising. The Library assumes no responsibility for loss of or damage to exhibited materials. Exhibitors are responsible for providing their own insurance.
Materials exhibited may be offered for sale, but the Library will not act as an agent for the exhibitor.

Copyright disclaimer:

“The Copyright of the United States, title 17, U. S. Code, governs the making of photocopies or the reproduction of copyrighted materials. The same person using this equipment is liable for any infringement.” Copyright regulations pertain also to information received via computer, computer software, audiocassettes, or compact discs.

Video disclaimer:

“Licensed for private home exhibition only. All other rights reserved. Any public performance, copying, or other use is strictly prohibited. Federal law provides severe civil and criminal penalties for the unauthorized reproduction, distribution or exhibition of copyrighted motion pictures, videotapes or laserdiscs. Criminal copyright infringement is investigated by the FBI and may constitute a felony with a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison/or a $250,000 fine.”

Computer disclaimer:

Newton Public Library is not responsible for damage to any user’s disk or computer, or any loss of data, damage, or liability that may occur from patron use of the Library’s computers.

Internet disclaimer:

The use of the Internet is designed in accordance with the Library’s mission for educational and informational purposes. Since the Internet is a global electronic network, there is no state/national control of its users or content. The Internet and its available resources may contain material of an offensive nature. The Library makes a good faith effort to minimize exposure of offensive materials through its Electronic Services Use, Illegal and Prohibited Acts, Internet Access for Minors, Internet Contents, User Responsibilities policies. Accessing, printing or downloading illegal sites as defined by the Kansas Obscenity Statute (21-4301 et. seq., the Child Pornography Statue 21-3516) or the Harmful to Minors Statute (21-4301c) is prohibited.

Internet and email access procedures:

The Library’s Internet access is intended primarily as an information resource. The Library does provide electronic mail through free web base email services. The Library does not provide access to newsgroups/chat rooms. Access is provided through “browser” software, and library users use the Internet at their own discretion. Parents are expected to monitor and supervise their children’s use of the Internet. Parents and legal guardians may restrict minors from access to Internet resources available through the Library. The Internet Access Restriction Form is available at the Check Out desk.
Designated Internet workstations will be located where it can be monitored by staff for assistance and security.
The Internet workstations are open to all library users with a Newton Public Library card in good standing. To protect the Library from liability for illegal use of the Internet, each user is required to sign in at the Check Out Desk on the floor where the station is located and leave his/her Newton Public Library card with the library staff. Through his/her signature, each user agrees to the Electronic Services Policies each time access is granted. The user must sign off before the library card is returned. A maximum of two people may view the Internet workstation during one sign up block. Both must follow the sign up procedure. A minimal level of computer competence is required for users of the Internet workstation. Library staff will offer searching suggestions and answer questions, but cannot provide individual training.
Use is on a first-come, first serve basis. Each user may reserve access to the Internet workstation 24 hours prior to use. Each user may reserve up to one hour block of time in a 24 hour period. The user may use the computer in 15 minute increments until time the computer was previously reserved if the computer is available without making a reservation. The user must complete searching, downloading, and printing before the scheduled hour is over and/or before the next user is scheduled to begin using the computer. Time limits begin at the scheduled hour, not when login is successful, and will be enforced to ensure fair access for all persons. Anyone arriving more than ten minutes late for a scheduled appointment may have forfeited his/her time to a walk-in user. Users may not start a session within 15 minutes of closing, and station use must end at library closing time.
Library patrons and visitors may use designated Email stations for 15 minutes maximum in a 24 hour period. The user is required to sign in at the Adult Services Check Out Desk and leave his/her Newton Public Library card or acceptable photo identification with the Library staff and record the date and time on the sign-in sheet. Visitors under the age of eighteen who are not registered borrowers may register to use email stations only with a parent or legal guardian who has presented acceptable photo identification. All other policies related to Internet access apply to the Email stations.
There is $.10 per page charge for printing. The user must sign out and pay all printing charges at the desk before leaving.
For those users who want to save their files, formatted disks will be available at the desk for $1.00 each. Users may not run programs of their own, or programs downloaded from the Internet on the Library’s computer. Files left on computer hard drives will be deleted.
Users will be personally responsible for any materials ordered via the Internet. They will need to pay for these items with a credit card. The library will not be responsible for these costs.
Inappropriate use of Internet access may result in cancellation of the individual’s use of this service.
Library scheduled use of the equipment takes precedence over individual use at all times.
Newton Public Library is not responsible for damage to any user’s disk or computer, or any loss of data, damage, or liability that may occur from patron use of the Library’s computers.
To use a Public Access Internet or Email station, user must read the NPL Electronic Services Policies and Internet and Email Access Procedures and sign up at the Information Desk.
* Please note a broad range of material is available over the Internet. Newton Public Library does not take responsibility for its accuracy, timeliness, or appropriateness. * Users are responsible for materials that are accessed. Parents/guardians of minors are responsible for monitoring material accessed by minors. * It is prohibited to use this station for illegal, actionable, or criminal purposes or to seek access into unauthorized areas. Infringement of copyright is prohibited. NPL assumes no responsibility for any direct or indirect damages arising from the use of its connection to Internet services. * There is a one hour time limit on Internet workstations and 15 minute time limit on Email stations.

Internet access restriction form:

A parent or legal guardian may restrict his/her minor who is under the Kansas age of majority which is 18 years of age from access to Internet resources available at the Newton Public Library. The Internet Access Restriction will not apply to the minor accessing computer stations dedicated to the NPL catalog or subscription reference databases. The parent or legal guardian is required to complete the Internet Access Restriction Form and present parent’s/guardian’s proof of identification as per library registration policies which includes a photo ID. Signature of parent/guardian is required on the Internet Access Restriction Form for Minors and the library card. Internet Access Restriction Forms are available at the desk.

Ordinance No. 3506:

An Ordinance regulating the return of material to the Newton Public Library and providing penalties for failure to return such material.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF NEWTON, KANSAS:
SECTION 1. It shall be unlawful for any person to fail to return any book, newspaper, magazine, pamphlet, manuscript, article, art print, phonograph record, film or any other property owned by, or consigned to, the Newton Public Library after written notice to return the same within thirty (30) days has been given such person, provided such notice shall be given after the expiration of the time which by the rules of the Library Board the book or other library material may be kept.
SECTION 2. It shall be unlawful for any person to do any one or more of the following acts.
a. Give a fictitious name or address at the Newton Public Library in order to obtain possession or use of any book or other property of the Newton Public Library;
b. To use a library card of another person without permission of such owner to secure possession of any book or other property of the Newton Public Library;
c. To conceal his or her identity or place of employment or residence in any manner whatsoever in order to secure possession of any book, library card or any other property of the Newton Public Library.
SECTION 3. The notice required in Section 1 hereof shall be given by the Librarian of the Newton Public Library and shall be substantially as follows:
a. The notice shall be in writing;
b. Specifically state the violations alleged to exist or to have been committed;
c. Specify that the person to whom the notice is issued shall have thirty (30) days within which to correct the violations specified;
d. Be addressed to and served upon the holder of the library card at the most recent address as it appears from such person’s application for a library card. Such notice shall be deemed properly served upon such holder or owner of a library card if a copy thereof is served upon him personally, or if a copy thereof is sent by certified mail to the most recent address listed on his or her application for a library card.
SECTION 4. In any prosecution charging a violation of Section 1 of this Ordinance, proof that a particular individual was the registered holder of a particular library card which was used to secure any book or any other library property, shall constitute in evidence a prima facie presumption that a the record owner or holder of such library card was the person who utilized the same to secure a particular book or any other property of the Newton Public Library at the point where and at the time when such violation is alleged to have occurred. The foregoing stated presumption shall apply only when the procedure as prescribed by Section 3 above has been followed.
SECTION 5. Any violation of the provisions of this Ordinance shall constitute a misdemeanor and any person violating any of the provisions of this Ordinance shall upon conviction thereof be fined in a sum not less than Twenty-five Dollars ($25.00) nor in excess of Two Hundred Fifty Dollars ($250.00).
SECTION 6. This Ordinance shall take effect and be in force from and after its adoption and publication in the Newton Kansan, the official newspaper of said City.
DATED THIS 1st day of October, 1980.
Fred Gonzalez, Mayor
ATTEST:
Allison Schroeder, City Clerk